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Sustainable water solutions: DARROW’s cutting-edge approach to water management

Water scarcity is one of the most pressing global challenges, with over 2 billion people lacking access to freshwater. Addressing this crisis requires innovative, sustainable water solutions. DARROW and other EU-funded initiatives are pioneering technologies to reshape water management. These innovations have the potential to ease pressure on freshwater supplies and support a circular economy.

Earth.Org recently featured our work within the DARROW project. The article highlights how the AI tools we are developing will promote more efficient resource management.

Treating wastewater to a level suitable for its intended use, known as ‘water fit for purpose,’ allows for its reuse for different applications such as irrigation, industrial processes, and even potable water. This approach can alleviate the strain on freshwater resources and is a sustainable way to manage water scarcity.
Kimberly Tumlos Solon
Postdoctoral Researcher, Ghent University

Key takeaways from the article

  • AI for smarter wastewater treatment: DARROW is developing AI tools to optimise wastewater treatment processes. These tools will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase biogas production, decreasing reliance on external energy sources.
  • ‘Water fit for purpose’: DARROW’s approach ensures wastewater is treated to appropriate standards. It can then be reused in agriculture, industry, or even as potable water, alleviating pressure on freshwater supplies.
  • Algae-based solutions: EU-funded project like REALM and LOCALITY are exploring the potential of algae to purify water, prevent nutrient pollution, and convert wastewater into bio-products like biopesticides and bio-stimulants.
  • Balancing energy demands: While new technologies such as AI are promising, addressing their energy requirements remains a key challenge for ensuring sustainable implementation. Collaborative innovation will be essential to strike a balance between sustainability and efficiency.

To learn more about the potential of these innovations, read the full article by Luca Arfini for Earth.Org below.

Stay tuned as DARROW continues to develop sustainable water solutions to tackle global challenges.